TRENTON, September 2, 2016—Dr. Lawrence S. Feinsod, executive director of the New Jersey School Boards Association, today issued the following statement in response to Governor Christie’s announcement of the resignation of Commissioner of Education David C. Hespe:
“Dave Hespe’s concern for the welfare of New Jersey’s schoolchildren is outstanding and sincere. As our state’s chief education officer, he has been extremely accessible, has always given time to listen to the concerns of local boards of education, and has worked collaboratively on many issues.
“Whether you agreed with him on a particular issue, or not, Dave has always had the respect of his colleagues because of his genuine interest and concern for our state’s public schools.
“Commissioner Hespe is honest and ethical and has represented himself, the New Jersey Department of Education and our state’s public schools in the highest professional manner. He will certainly be missed.”
Governor Christie also announced the appointment of Kimberley Harrington, the current Assistant Commissioner/Chief Academic Officer, as acting commissioner of education.
“The New Jersey School Boards Association has enjoyed an excellent relationship with Kimberley Harrington,” said Feinsod. “We look forward to continue working with her toward our mutual goal of advancing the achievement of all of our state’s public school students.”
********
The New Jersey School Boards Association is a federation of the state’s local boards of education and includes the majority of New Jersey’s charter schools as associate members. NJSBA provides training, advocacy and support to advance public education and promote the achievement of all students through effective governance.